This July, something rare is coming to Chicago.

The International Buddhism Friendship Association (IBFA), in partnership with the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, will host the Buddha and Sacred Relics Veneration and Prayer Ceremony — a two-day public event bringing ancient Buddhist sacred relics to the heart of Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood.

The relics, traveling from the Master Taixu Relic Stupa at Triple Wisdom Hall in Penang, Malaysia, include relics of Śākyamuni Buddha himself and four of his greatest disciples. They will be open for public veneration throughout both days of the ceremony — a rare opportunity that draws Buddhists and curious visitors alike from across the world wherever it occurs.

The event is free and open to everyone — no experience with Buddhism required.

Event Details

Saturday, July 25th, 2026 In front of the Chicago Chinatown Visitor Center 2189 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago IL 60616

9:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Opening Ceremony

• Blessing chanting from multiple Buddhist traditions
• Blessing walk circling Chinatown

Sunday, July 26th, 2026 2189 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago IL 60616 (In front of the Chicago Chinatown Visitor Center, intersection of Wentworth Ave & Cermak Rd)

10:30 AM: Blessing Chanting

1:00 – 3:00 PM: Dharma Sharing & Exchange Assembly (Moving to: Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, 250 W 22nd Pl, Chicago IL 60616)

Distinguished Guest: Venerable Bhikkhu Bodhi

We are deeply honored to welcome Venerable Bhikkhu Bodhi as our distinguished guest and keynote speaker. An American-born Theravāda monk, scholar, and translator, Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi is one of the most respected Buddhist voices in the Western world, known for his landmark translations of the Pāli Canon and his decades of teaching. His presence at this ceremony reflects the spirit of the event itself — Buddhism as a living, breathing tradition that crosses boundaries of culture, language, and background.

What Are Buddhist Relics?

If you’re new to Buddhism, you may be wondering — what exactly are relics, and why do they matter?

In Buddhism, relics are the physical remains of the Buddha or highly realized practitioners, preserved after cremation. They are regarded not as mere historical artifacts but as living symbols of the Buddha’s wisdom, compassion, and presence in the world. For practitioners, venerating relics is an opportunity to connect directly with that lineage — to be, in some sense, in the presence of the teachings themselves.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing a series of posts exploring the relics featured in this ceremony, the remarkable lives of the disciples whose relics will be present, and the ancient tradition of relic veneration. Whether you’re a longtime practitioner or simply curious, we hope these posts offer something meaningful.

Join Us — All Are Warmly Welcome

This is a public event, free of charge, held in the heart of one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Come to chant, to walk, to listen, to learn, or simply to be present. No prior experience with Buddhism is needed — only an open heart.

For official event details, visit ibfachicagotemple.org.

To receive updates as the ceremony approaches, sign up here.

The Buddha and Sacred Relics Veneration and Prayer Ceremony is jointly organized by the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce (CCC) and the International Buddhism Friendship Association (IBFA).

A Note on Respectful Participation

As this is a sacred religious ceremony, we ask all attendees to come prepared to participate with reverence and respect. Please dress modestly — avoid tight or revealing clothing. Hats and sunglasses should be removed during the ceremony. We also ask that attendees refrain from loud conversation and excessive cellphone use, so that everyone may be fully present to the experience. Photographs are welcome.

If you are new to Buddhist ceremonies, simply follow the lead of those around you and approach the experience with an open, humble heart and a compassionate, respectful mind. You are warmly welcome here.